Kumamoto & the Aso Volcano
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Welcome to Kumamoto
Today you will arrive in Kumamoto, about an hour’s drive from Kagoshima and two hours from Nagasaki. You’ll stay in a comfortable hotel that is centrally located in the city. Kumamoto is home to the iconic Kumamoto-jo, a majestic castle at the heart of the city. Though the castle suffered significant damage during the 2016 earthquake and is currently closed for restoration (a process that will take several years), it remains an impressive sight from the outside. Built in the early 17th century, it is one of Japan’s most beautiful castle and continues to be a source of pride for the local residents.
Day 2 – Explore the volcanic area of Aso-san
Take a self-guided day trip today to the Aso region, located in the heart of Kyushu Island. This area is home to one of the largest volcanic craters in the world and inside the crater, you’ll find individual peaks, including Naka-dake, which rises to 1,506 meters above sea level. The volcano remains active, and although some areas were closed until recently, the crater is now accessible again. To explore the region, take a bus from Kumamoto to the city of Aso, where you can change buses to take you deep into the heart of the crater area. Make sure to swing by the Aso Volcano Museum to learn about the volcanic activity and the region’s geological features. You can then continue your journey by bus to the crater rim of Naka-dake. In the evening, you’ll return to Kumamoto for another comfortable night in the city.
Day 3 – Leave Kumamoto
Say goodbye to Kumamoto and continue your journey through Japan.
Tip: Travel with a rental car
Would you prefer to explore the Aso region with a rental car? It’s a great idea! With a rental car, you’ll have the flexibility to plan your days at your own pace, take breaks whenever you like, and visit hidden gems that might be harder to reach by public transport. There is little traffic in the Aso region, so driving here is relaxed and we will be happy to advise you on rental car options and any driving license requirements.
Accommodation
